The Dodo Archive

Diver Films Majestic Humpback Whale "Ballet"

Most whale-watching experiences take place from the surface of the water, offering the chance to glimpse the immense power of these enormous animals as they leap and breach in a thrilling display of aquatic acrobatics. But beneath the surface, the movement of whales can be much more delicate -- and at times, even artful.

Whale researcher Andrew Stevenson recently filmed this extraordinary scene of two playful humpbacks off the coast of Bermuda, diving, bobbing and pirouetting like a pair of 40-ton ballet dancers.

"These encounters are always on the whales' terms. They come to the boat, the engine is off, and I am completely passive. Over time they can become increasingly curious," writes Stevenson. "This encounter was the better part of three hours and by the end they were literally sticking their noses in my face."